Russia has deployed anti-aircraft missiles in Syria to protect itself from air strikes, the head of Russia's air force, Viktor Bondarev, told the Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper Thursday.
Bondarev did not specify the exact types of air defense systems deployed.
Russia began air strikes against militant groups in Syria on Sept. 30. Moscow claims it is targeting terrorist groups, though Western analysts say Moscow's real aim is to defend its ally, Syrian President Bashar Assad.
Preparations were being made for the deployment of Russia's advanced air-defense systems on Sept. 11, Reuters reported, citing Russian and U.S. unidentified sources. The sources told Reuters that the system being transported to Syria was the newest version of the SA-22.
Russia's main airbase in Syria is located outside the coastal city of Latakia. It has about 50 aircraft including Su-24M and Su-34 bombers, low-flying ground attack Su-25CM jets and multi-role Su-30CM fighters, as well as Mi-24 attack helicopters and multi-role Mi-8 helicopters.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
